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Tech News 2.0Fri, 18 May 2018 02:48:47 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.5https://www.digitizd.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/fav.pngDigitizdhttps://www.digitizd.com
3232livethe20lifehttps://feedburner.google.comWhat is Arduino Useful For?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/q-NoBoelUTc/
https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-arduino-useful-for/#respondFri, 18 May 2018 02:47:49 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=455The open-source Arduino platform helps creative people put together unique electronics products, either as a hobby or for functional use. The programmable circuit board can receive code sent via a USB connection. A development environment allows hobbyists to try out their own innovative ideas for fun projects they can bring to life with the help [...]

The open-source Arduino platform helps creative people put together unique electronics products, either as a hobby or for functional use. The programmable circuit board can receive code sent via a USB connection. A development environment allows hobbyists to try out their own innovative ideas for fun projects they can bring to life with the help of a programmed Arduino circuit board.

There are useful starter kits to get you moving forward with Arduino. To find the best starter kit for you, click here. Let’s now look at some project examples to see what a little Arduino and some ingenuity can get you.

Garage Door Opener

There’s no longer a need to carry a separate garage door opener. When you’ve mislaid it, you don’t need to panic because Arduino can be used to create a garage door opener that works through your home computer network and your smartphone. As long as you can locate your phone, you can get the garage door to activate. No more stress with hopping out of your car in the rain to open the door manually because you cannot find your garage device.

The project uses the Arduino EtherTen to send the control signal to the garage to open or close. The circuit board works the garage door via a website that’s accessible on your smartphone. With Arduino hooked into your Wi-Fi network, there’s a convenient control interface to manage the system. Up to five family members can have their own password to the web server to access the garage door system (and can be removed, as needed).

Ambient Light Night Lamp

Young kids get scared of the dark. They often want the landing light left on or need a night light plugged into the power outlet. Sleeping in complete darkness isn’t something we get comfortable with until we reach adulthood - and sometimes not even then.

Using Arduino, it’s possible to create a night lamp. It is round and will change color the darker the level of ambient light is in the room, which is a fun feature for small kids. Using either a light dependent resistor or a photoresistor, the mini circuit board can respond correctly and appropriately to changes in light levels. Different resistors with different Ohm levels are needed, depending on whether the light source into the kid’s room has natural light or an artificial light source.

The Ambient light night lamp is a project that a father or mother can develop with their child. If the child shows an interest in how electronics function, then this is an ideal way to learn about it and create a usable product for their bedroom once completed.

Segway-like Robot That Balances Itself

A Segway is fun to ride around on but it’s not really a great kid’s toy. But if you could create a nifty little robot on wheels that can tilt forward and stand back up straight again without falling over, that would be something, right?! Well, Arduino can be used to do just that.

The body is made a block of acrylic to keep it light and somewhat rigid. A couple of DC motors do most of the pushing to get the little robot moving fast. There are two rugged wheels with ample lugs to grip to most surfaces satisfactorily too.

The finished design is a bit like how a pendulum works – just upside down. With weight distribution at the center or higher on the robot, it helps to balance it. However, the real magic is in the accelerometer and gyroscope, which provides information to the system about the current rotated position and level of acceleration. These aren’t much different to the sensors on a smartphone and provide enough information to help the balancing robot do its thing. Neat or what!

Internet of Things (IoT)

If you’ve been interested in getting into the Internet of Things with home automation to manage everything in your home, your friendly programmable circuit board can help with that too. There’s a special home automation server built to help people who wish to put the time into creating a home automation system on their end to connect to the server that’s been created ready to receive their signal.

The system costs less than one hundred bucks to buy the components to create the device. It includes environmental sensors to pick up the temperature, humidity levels, lighting levels, and more. Motion detection and smoke detection can also be built into this kind of system, making separate devices for each function unnecessary. Action events can also be triggered depending on set criteria. For instance, a vacation routine initiated to turn on the lights at certain times and off at other times to mimic still being in the home is one possibility.

LED Light Saber

If you’re into Sci-Fi, then this one is definitely for you. Create a lightsaber that works in the daytime and the nighttime and is perfectly visible due to bright LED lights. Step into the role of Luke Skywalker and feel the force. The saber is intricate but compact. It uses programmable LED light strips and heats up during use to simulate the power of the Jedi. Just don’t try to get into any actual saber battles because these are LED lights, after all.

There are numerous ways to use the programmable circuit board technology of Arduino to try new and interesting ideas out. Being able to write code directly and send it to the board using just a USB cable is a simple advancement that hasn’t been easily possible before. The computing language C++ has been simplified to make it easier to code the behavior that’s needed for each project too.

For design- or technically-minded people, many weekends can be enjoyed coming up with new ideas, sourcing supplies, and create finalized, working solutions to show off to friends and fellow hobbyists. Ultimately, you’ll never be bored when playing around with this PCB and programmable technology because the possibilities for invention and creation are virtually endless. Who knows? One of your inventions could end up on a ‘FundMe’ account when seeking business capital to go into real production later.

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-arduino-useful-for/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-arduino-useful-for/Technologies and Tools That Help You Improve Your Homehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/0jM44OFPdIM/
https://www.digitizd.com/technologies-tools-help-improve-home/#respondWed, 11 Apr 2018 15:44:31 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=441You can make your home better with new furniture and bright colored walls, but there are also ingenuitive and technologically savvy ways to make things look better inside. For instance, a new refrigerator with an ice maker, a filtered water dispenser, temperature gauge, and a stainless-steel facade will have your kitchen looking more spruced up [...]

You can make your home better with new furniture and bright colored walls, but there are also ingenuitive and technologically savvy ways to make things look better inside. For instance, a new refrigerator with an ice maker, a filtered water dispenser, temperature gauge, and a stainless-steel facade will have your kitchen looking more spruced up as well as more functional. There is an entire new class of technologies and tools that are especially suited for homeowners who want to live their best lives. Our reviews of the best corded drills will get you on track to making home improvements easier, while this upcoming list of technologies will aid you in getting everything else in order. Here are the technologies and tools you need to live easier.

What Is the Smart Home?

Adding something as simple as a touchscreen temperature gauge in your house might qualify you to be what’s known as a smart homeowner. Doors that automatically lock and unlock with the swipe of a smartphone screen, houses that use robots to sweep and mop the floors or video intercom systems that can be used to answer the door and communicate with visitors even remotely are examples of smart home technologies. So, other than convenience, why are homeowners investing in technologies that may not be so simple to set up or even widely known about? Well, first, smart homes are exceedingly more streamlined than your average, everyday house. When you are able to change the temperature with an app on your phone or even unlock the front door to let your kids in after school, you have to admit that your life is on the brink of getting a lot simpler.

Better Tools for a Better Home

At the local hardware store, there are various tools, kits, and manufacturers you can choose from to get various home improvement jobs done. For instance, when you purchase a new home and you don’t have tools of any kind, most homeowners automatically know that they are going to need a power drill. Some drills are corded, others work on batteries. There are drills that have easy to remove drill bits that can be replaced in the blink of an eye and other drill makers offer parts that have to be specially ordered. You basically can’t do too much in a newly purchased home to make it look and function better unless you have the tools of the trade on hand. So, while your father-in-law might have offered to give you a set of tools that have been collecting dust in his garage for the last 20 years, you have to think about value and ease of use when you are improving your home, too.

Is Keyless Entry a Smart Idea for Home Owners?

A few years ago, various car manufacturers introduced technologies that let new car owners start up their cars and even get inside of their rides - all without keys. For cars, keyless entry was dubbed the newest, hottest technology that not only signified that you owned a new car but also showed that you had a little status. Unfortunately, newer technologies are expensive to have installed and troubleshoot when things go wrong. For homeowners, keyless entry is another feature seen in most smart homes that will either have you feeling very excited or skeptical. Basically, you would again use your smartphone to get inside of your home when you go inside instead of a standard house key. It is going to be a bit expensive to get everything set up, but one of the biggest selling points of keyless entry is the fact that you can lock or unlock the doors to your home remotely.

Smart Home Security Systems

Lots of homeowners are going a step further than having basic security systems installed, and that is a very good thing. With a smart home security system, it is going to be a lot more difficult for thieves to rob you successfully or for them to get away with it. Standard home security systems use little more than phone lines to trip up robbers and get alarms to go off. Smart home security works in a very different way. First, there’s video monitoring that will capture activity around your home at every angle. So instead of just using your home security system to keep robbers out, you can also use it to keep an eye on the new babysitter you’ve just hired. Additionally, smart home security systems are great for getting better home insurance rates.

Digital HVAC Systems

If nothing else, you should consider having a digitalized HVAC system in your home if you want your quality of life to improve. The biggest expense that you will have outside of paying for your home itself is likely going to be electricity, heating, and cooling. It has already been shown that older HVAC systems aren’t as efficient. Like older windows and doors, dated boilers, air conditioners, and hot water heaters aren’t good at conserving heat or preventing cool air from escaping the interior of homes. With a digital HVAC system, you will get home temperature and energy usage monitoring that will aid you in saving home and staying on top of problems. Even better, your digital HVAC system will let you easily shut off the heat when you are away and turn it right back on before you get back, so you never have to walk into a cold home again. You can get a bunch of computers and invest in a state of the art home entertainment system to help your home look modern and technologically advanced, but that doesn’t help too much with the structure or overall function. Consider the ways that new technologies and tools will make your home an easier one to live in. From ovens that you can connect to your Wi-Fi network and change the temperature on from the living room, to garage doors that you can lock while you are at work, smart homes and improving technologies are making it a lot easier for homeowners to have complete access to and control over their homes.

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/technologies-tools-help-improve-home/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/technologies-tools-help-improve-home/What Is Web Hosting?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/Dumk5e2MjCE/
https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-web-hosting/#respondThu, 22 Mar 2018 13:44:15 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=412If you want to start a website, whether it is a blog about something that interests you, a showcase for your photography or other work, or a site for your business, there are a few things you will need to get started.One of these is, of course, a website design, which you can either have [...]

If you want to start a website, whether it is a blog about something that interests you, a showcase for your photography or other work, or a site for your business, there are a few things you will need to get started.

One of these is, of course, a website design, which you can either have done professionally or do yourself using one of the many products out there for this, such as WordPress. While for some simple website projects, like personal blogs that you don't expect to see a huge amount of traffic, you can simply publish with a free blog hosting site like WordPress itself or Blogger, for most sites you will also need a domain name of your own, and somewhere to host your site.

Here, we are going to look at why it is important for sites to have their own hosting and domains, and what is involved in getting your site set up with the right type of hosting for your needs.

Why Does Your Site Need Its Own Host and Domain If Free Options Are Available?

Free options like publishing your website with a WordPress URL restrict you in some ways. One important point is that you will be heavily restricted if you want to monetize your site in any way, as most methods of advertising are not accepted on sites that are hosted in this way, due to the fact the person who owns the site doesn't truly own its space on the web, which can lead to legal issues. If your site is intended to make any money at all. Even from things like Amazon affiliate marketing or Google Ads, you will need to own the domain and have a proper hosting arrangement.

Another factor is that sites simply look more professional when they have their own memorable URL. For the small expense of a domain and hosting, you can show that your site is not an amateur endeavor but something that has been done with some care and commitment. Again, free blog sites are really just designed for people who want to have a small scale personal blog, so that there is no barrier to anybody doing this. They are not designed to be used by professional bloggers or businesses, and this is something that blog readers tend to be aware of.

A third reason why you want professional hosting on your own domain is that it helps your brand be more memorable. Your web address itself can be a memorable piece of branding, and you can be sure that people will be able to find your site easily just by knowing your company name if you are able to use that as your domain name.

So, What Are You Actually Buying When You Arrange for Web Hosting?

When you arrange for your site to be hosted by a web hosting company, you are essentially buying space on their servers or cloud, and their commitment to keep your site up and running at the levels agreed in your contract. All of the maintenance and support needed to keep your site at the agreed high level of uptime becomes the responsibility of your hosting provider, and back-ups and security are also part of the deal. This is the case whatever kind of web hosting you opt for, though how it is done and to what extent depends on the type of hosting you go for and what is in your agreement with your host.

What Are the Different Types of Web Hosting You Can Consider?

There are several different ways sites can be hosted, and which one is right for you depends on a number of factors, although increasingly, cloud based hosting is becoming the best all round option for the vast majority of sites and online enterprises.

The smallest scale kind of web hosting is shared server hosting. This is where your site is housed on a physical server and shares the resources of that server with other websites. This used to be the best choice for people who wanted a cheap option that was suitable for a small website that wasn't expecting to grow in scale very suddenly. There are a lot of downsides to having a site on one physical server, because downtime and limited resources can be a factor when you are limited to just the one machine, shared with other sites that are also drawing on that machine's resources. However, it was a good, cheap way of doing things for non mission critical sites with a limited audience size, like small local business sites or personal blogs.

Another type of hosting is dedicated server hosting. This is where the site is hosted on a physical server, but that server is only used for that website. This is usually the most expensive option, and is usually only best suited to large scale business websites that need that amount of server capacity, for example sites that have to host things like software as a service (SaaS), sites that have large databases at the back end, or sites which have thousands of concurrent sessions with users writing to the server.

Now, these types of hosting are still in use, and there are still cases where they can be the better option. However, in the past few years, cloud web hosting has become pretty much the norm for websites of all sizes - from large scale ecommerce sites through to small business blogs. Cloud hosting is where your site exists on a virtual server, which can draw resources from the cloud - that is, it has access to resources from numerous different machines, which can be supplied to it as and when needed.

The reasons why cloud hosting has proven superior in so many scenarios are many. Firstly, there are no issues when sites suddenly receive a big spike in usage - the site can be supplied with any resources it needs to support its traffic as it happens. Secondly, the site owners are billed for the resources they actually use, making it generally very cost effective (assuming that large spikes in traffic equate to large spikes in revenue!). Thirdly, it offers the best in terms of reliability, as cloud hosting has inherent redundancy and the failure of a machine will not impact the availability of the sites hosted on the cloud it is connected to.

As you can see, web hosting really isn't a complicated thing to organize for your new site, and so if you look for a good cloud hosting package you will be able to publish your site as soon as you are ready to go. Many hosts will also allow you to arrange to buy the domain name you want as part of the package too, which means all you have to do is create your site!

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-web-hosting/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-web-hosting/How to Effectively Clean Your CPAP Machinehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/oh67Z4zI1l8/
https://www.digitizd.com/effectively-clean-cpap-machine/#respondWed, 07 Mar 2018 13:25:27 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=401Just as any other piece of medical equipment, your CPAP machine should be kept clean and sanitized to avoid contamination and ensure it continues to work effectively for years to come. When you purchase a CPAP machine, there should be detailed instructions that come with the machine that inform you of how to do this [...]

Just as any other piece of medical equipment, your CPAP machine should be kept clean and sanitized to avoid contamination and ensure it continues to work effectively for years to come. When you purchase a CPAP machine, there should be detailed instructions that come with the machine that inform you of how to do this safely and effectively to ensure each piece of the equipment stays sanitary. If a CPAP machine isn’t clean, you will not be getting the best and cleanest airflow through the tubes and mask, meaning it can affect how the machine works, making it less effective over time. Medical equipment should always be taken care of and cleaned to avoid infection and illnesses through poor infection control.

What Happens If I Do Not Clean My CPAP Machine?

Your CPAP machine uses humidified air so it can be a very humid environment. A wet and hot environment is the ideal place for bacteria to grow and is a great place for mold, fungus and yeast to grow. The humidified air ensures that the air doesn’t dry out your mouth and nose but means you need to keep on top of cleaning the machine. When too much moisture builds up within the tubing or humidifier system, the CPAP machine can begin to grow mold that can come with some serious health risks. Mold can cause a sore throat, itchiness, blocked nose, irritation, coughing and eye or skin irritation. When purchasing a CPAP machine, you should also purchase a quality sanitizer that will ensure this does not happen.

Cleaning Your CPAP Machine: A Guide

1. Ensure the CPAP machine is unplugged from the wall and switched off before you begin to dismantle or clean. Doing this means you will not be at risk of an electric shock when using water near an electrical outlet. Never put it in water, even if it is not plugged in!

2. Once unplugged, dismantle the machine by taking the mask from the tubing system, removing the headgear, and taking the tubing from the power outlet. Now you can remove the humidifier and the water chamber. If you are unsure on how to do this your manual should give you instructions on how to do so properly. Never guess as you may damage it.

3. Clean the separate pieces of equipment with a soft, wet cloth. You may want to use dish soap that is for sensitive skin or baby shampoo to your water. If you want to better disinfect your equipment, adding vinegar to your water will clean the machine better than water alone. For the best results, you should use a sanitizer made for this purpose like SoClean CPAP cleaner.

4. Wipe over all the equipment thoroughly, ensuring you change the water at least once for effective cleaning. If the water looks dirty, change it sooner.

5. Soak the tubing, mask and headgear in warm water for around 30 minutes, these aren’t electrical so this is safe. Take them out and ensure they air dry before the next use of your CPAP machine. Failing to do so will increase the risk of mold. Repeat this once a week.

6. If your CPAP machine has machine filters, check these. Some CPAP machine use reusable filters than need to be cleaned weekly, others are disposable. If this is the case, filters usually need to be replaced once monthly. The best way to find out this information is in the manual of your CPAP machine under the filters section.

Why Should I Get A CPAP Cleaner?

If you purchase a CPAP cleaner, you will not have to repeat this step by step process each week, saving you time and energy. A CPAP cleaner can clean the machine effectively, keeping you safe from harm and your machine working appropriately, without having to dismantle the machine. This is especially handy for those who would struggle with the cleaning process, such as those very sick or old. CPAP machines do not require any chemicals or the use of water. An automated sanitizer machine for your CPAP machine could kill up to 99.9% of mold, bacteria or viruses that live in your CPAP machine, something that can be significantly lower when dismantling and cleaning the machine yourself.

A CPAP cleaner ensures the machine reaches a hospital standard of clean, which is how clean your CPAP machine should stay. Although experts recommend a clean each week, if you have a respiratory illness, or any other, your machine should be cleaned daily to prevent you from getting worse. Your humidifier system should be heated to avoid condensation. It is also advised that distilled water is used to prevent infection. Replace items as your CPAP manual advises as these regulations are there to keep you safe and your machine working effectively. Never share your equipment with anyone.

CPAP Cleaning Wipes

CPAP cleaning wipes are an alternative to a CPAP. Many trustworthy manufacturers such as ResMed sell CPAP cleaning wipes, for an easy way to sanitize and clean your machine daily. These are a great way to clean the mask that can become dirty with the natural oils from your face. They will gently, yet effectively remove any bacteria and dirt from the cushion of the mask, they are not abrasive and will not harm your face. If a cushion is too dirty it may not seal on your face properly, meaning you will not get the air you need through your machine. These wipes are made from cotton and don’t use any fragrance products. There are many products that can be used to clean your CPAP machine properly.

When cleaning your device, look for products that have been made by a reliable company and are right for your machine. Humidified CPAP machines need the most cleaning as they can be the most dangerous for breeding germs and bacteria. Investing in a CPAP cleaner may be the best way to ensure a quick and effective clean is done weekly. Cleaning your CPAP machine will guarantee it works for years and ensures you get the best oxygen therapy.

If you're looking to buy the best CPAP machine:

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/effectively-clean-cpap-machine/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/effectively-clean-cpap-machine/Why People Invest Heavily in Quality Micehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/z7eT4QRt-qg/
https://www.digitizd.com/why-people-buy-quality-mice/#respondThu, 01 Mar 2018 13:54:59 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=396The mouse is considered to be only an accessory to the desktop computer and laptops come with their own trackpads, so asking why people invest in expensive mice is definitely a justifiable query. After all, some users do indeed spend a good deal of money buying a mouse like the Razer DeathAdder Chroma or the [...]

The mouse is considered to be only an accessory to the desktop computer and laptops come with their own trackpads, so asking why people invest in expensive mice is definitely a justifiable query. After all, some users do indeed spend a good deal of money buying a mouse like the Razer DeathAdder Chroma or the Elecom M-XT3DRBK, even when there are plenty of much cheaper options available to them. Before we delve into the details of the answer though, let us assure you of the fact that for the people who generally buy a high-performance mouse, the price is well worth it. To understand why it is so, let’s take a look at the following points.

They Last Longer

Just like everything else that costs a bit more than usual and is made with better materials by a renowned company, high-quality mice from well-known manufacturers last a lot longer than their cheap counterparts. In fact, most high-performance mice last a minimum of 20-million to 50-million clicks, while cheaper mice can’t even handle 5 million clicks.

They Just Feel So Much Better to Use

As the keyboard and the mouse are the two primary tools which we use the most to interact with our computers, the experience we have while using them is very important, but often ignored. The quality and the ergonomics of the mouse is especially important because if you are a heavy user who uses the mouse for multiple hours every day, you could be developing injuries and disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and repetitive strain injuries (RSI) among others.

On the other hand, a mouse that has been well made with heavy users in mind will reduce your chances of developing such injuries significantly, because not only are they ergonomic, the really good ones come with specific instructions that make it clear if they would be ideal for lefties or what hand-size and grip would be right for that particular product. The right mouse will offer a more natural grip to reduce strain, won’t weigh too much or too less and clicking it will feel just perfect. However, to achieve all this, the manufacturing costs increase accordingly, so that cost is reflected in the final product. In spite of the initial price, once you have used a high-quality mouse, you just can’t go back to using a $10 mouse anymore without feeling the downgrade with every movement and click.

You Can Control the Mouse DPI and Polling Rates

DPI or dots per inch refer to the number of dots the mouse pointer moves on-screen as a result of an inch of actual movement of the mouse on the pad. This means that while a DPI setting of 4,000 may cause your mouse pointer to fly all over the screen, a 400 DPI could be so low that you would have to make a lot of wrist and forearm movements to just get from one corner of the screen to the other. A lower DPI setting will give you better accuracy, while a higher DPI would decrease your reaction times and hand movements (which could be beneficial for reducing the chances of wrist and forearm injuries). Now, this is particularly relevant to gaming because surfing the web or opening documents do not exactly require pinpoint accuracy or reaction times of course! Even then, being able to set a DPI that suits your comfort zone in relation to hand and wrist movement is definitely an advantage even when doing regular tasks.

When I'm not using a WACOM PenTablet, this is my mouse of choice.

When it comes to games, however, and especially competitive online shooters like Counter Strike: Global Offensive or Overwatch, investing in a high-quality mouse that not only lets you adjust the DPI but gives you the option to change it on the fly to interchange between reaction shots and accurate shots, is a must for any serious player out there. However, DPI isn’t everything because the polling rate is what decides how fast the mouse reacts to your movements on-screen. A mouse with a higher polling rate will nullify the lag between your actual reaction and its representation in the game, although, it would be more CPU-intensive as well. You will see the polling rate being mentioned in Hz (125Hz, 500Hz etc.) because the number of Hz refers to the number of times that the mouse will be reporting to the computer about its current position every second. For example, a 500Hz polling rate will mean that the mouse will have a delay of 2 milliseconds.

If you are even remotely interested in playing competitive online games like CS: GO and being good at them, we recommend that you check out our reviews before investing in an expensive mouse because there are a lot of misleading products out there with awful sensors and grand marketing statements that are just not worth your money or time. You will still need to spend a significant amount of time to perfect your game, but the right mouse will make it easier and less straining to get there. On the other hand, if you are already an experienced player, you will see remarkable improvements once you get over the tiny learning curve that comes with a new mouse and experimenting with different DPI settings.

Should You Invest in a Trackball Mouse in 2018?

If you have not used a trackball mouse in ages, or ever for that matter, you might be wondering why anyone in their right minds would still be using one of these! Well, as it turns out, trackballs have their own set of advantages even in this world of superfast optical sensors and we have listed the reasons as to why you might be interested in one of these, in spite of the steep, beginner’s learning curve.

They not only eliminate the chances of RSI or carpal tunnel, but make work a lot less painful for those who already have developed these problems

When you don’t have enough space on your desk to move your mouse around a lot, the stationary nature of the trackball mouse is a perfect fit

Trackball mice work on any surface because the movement has nothing to do with the surface, but everything to do with your thumb movements

If you are already used to trackball mice or if any of the advantages mentioned above managed to hit a chord with you, check them out here for the best options that are available in the market today.

As you can see, the right mouse will differ from person to person, depending on multiple factors such as the user’s physical condition, the kind of use they are primarily interested in and their work space, but everyone has something or the other to benefit from investing in a high-quality mouse that’s right for them and that’s why they do it.

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/why-people-buy-quality-mice/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/why-people-buy-quality-mice/Can I Travel with a CPAP Machine? Tips and Advicehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/1u2mAvxP_Zg/
https://www.digitizd.com/can-i-travel-with-a-cpap-machine/#respondThu, 01 Mar 2018 13:48:51 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=391When you own a CPAP machine or you’re considering buying one, one concern is how can you travel on a business trip, to see relatives or on a prolonged vacation with it? The issue comes partly down to your mode of transport. If you’re flying by air, there are different considerations to when taking your [...]

When you own a CPAP machine or you’re considering buying one, one concern is how can you travel on a business trip, to see relatives or on a prolonged vacation with it? The issue comes partly down to your mode of transport. If you’re flying by air, there are different considerations to when taking your own vehicle all the way or traveling on an Amtrak train, a Greyhound bus, or another transport option.

Let’s look at your different options and considerations when traveling with CPAP equipment.

Flying with Checked Luggage

The TSA officials have stated previously when you need to travel with a CPAP machine, put it inside the carry-on luggage to put in the overhead bin. The idea here is to avoid any issue with a loss of luggage when arriving at the destination which would mean not having your CPAP device that evening when you need to get a good, safe night’s sleep. It’s also possible a daytime flight could get delayed in the air and become a late night one that requires the use of your CPAP unit. This is sensible advice and should be adhered to by anyone who carries a CPAP which them when flying to a destination.

For anyone who already doesn’t travel light, it’s good to know that when bringing important medical equipment, this is not considered a carry-on relating to your limits because it is for medical reasons. It’s worth double-checking with the chosen airline in this regard, but in almost all cases this is the reality. Buying a smaller, slimmer CPAP unit also helps to keep the carry-on size down to an acceptable size too.

Wrap the Equipment in Clear Plastic

You may be asked to remove the CPAP machine from the carry-on bag to run it through the X-ray machine. These machines aren’t always as clean as you would hope, so it’s a good idea to add a layer of see through plastic to seal the entire machine while it runs through the machine. If you have any issues with that, carrying a letter from your doctor explaining your medical need for a sanitized CPAP machine is never a bad idea too.

Some CPAP Units Have Their Own Travel Bag

Not every unit does, but bigger brands often offer a branded travel bag that perfectly fits their model and is designed with TSA agents in mind. Even if one is not given with the device, the manufacturer may sell one separately and it’s worth picking up because it will fit well and avoid the unit sliding around inside an ill-fitting bag where it could get damaged during transit.

Check the Machine is Working Perfectly Before You Travel

It makes sense to verify that the machine is functioning perfectly long before you leave for the airport. If you’re in a major city and there’s an issue, you could be able to get same-day delivery of a replacement part or arrange next-day delivery to your destination hotel to manage the issue without having to cancel the trip. It’s always better to be prepared.

Too Many Adapters?

If you have a power cable that’s been acting up, then consider getting a replacement in case if fails on you while you’re away. There’s always the possibility that a fuse could blow in the plug, so carry a replacement plug and a screw driver with you to swap out the plug if needed. Be aware that if you’re traveling abroad, the current won’t be the same as the US and you’ll need a device to convert the voltage to ensure full compatibility and an international adapter too.

Bring Spare Mask Cushions

You can be using the mask cushion just fine and then suddenly it stops being usable. There’s no predicting when this will happen, so bringing at least one spare cushion with you is a must. If you have other types of spares, then it’s never a bad thing to pack what you can to cover any type of equipment failure, within reason.

Using a CPAP on the Plane

There are occasions on long-haul flights where you’ll need to go overnight and use the CPAP. If this makes you feel too conspicuous, there are some hoodies designed to cover you and your machine to create a bit more privacy with other passengers. Click here to find suitable models that are smaller and won’t clutter up the seating area on a long flight.

Keeping Within FAA Regulations

It depends on the airline, but some require two-days’ notice when a passenger will be bringing a CPAP on a flight with them. This could rule out buying travel tickets at the last minute online or at the airport, so do bear this in mind. Some airlines expect to see labeling confirming that the equipment meets current FAA regulations for safety, so be sure to verify if that’s the case and whether your equipment has the required labeling. Don’t assume you’ll be okay; verify before you fly or better, before you book the ticket.

Consider the Difficulty of Less Travel-Friendly Options

When planning to travel on a Greyhound bus, Amtrak or another form of transport other than your own vehicle, be sure to consider storage space in the overhead bins or under seat storage. If you’ll need the machine to be positioned in front of you to use overnight, will there be enough leg room to do so? You may find that you need to book two assigned seats side-by-side to ensure there’s enough space for you and your CPAP unit without worrying about space for other travelers.

Traveling with a CPAP machine isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but it can be done. It’s certainly much simpler when you’re driving to your destination and have easy luggage options. It may be worth making a trip longer to provide greater comfort this way. Failing that, buying two seats next to each other ensures you’ll have enough space on a long-haul flight to use the equipment without being a burden to other passengers. Otherwise, getting seating in an area of the plane with greater leg room is a good idea. Talk with the airline to ensure they permit CPAP machines on their flights and what arrangements are best.

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/can-i-travel-with-a-cpap-machine/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/can-i-travel-with-a-cpap-machine/What is a CPAP Machine and How Can It Help You?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/ne5DGYWJUE8/
https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-a-cpap-machine-how-can-help-you/#respondThu, 01 Mar 2018 13:41:51 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=386When you have a sustained breathing problem that gets in the way of you either getting to sleep or staying asleep all through the night, then that’s a major issue. Sometimes people go years without realizing that they’re stopping breathing for several seconds at a time on many occasions through the night. Not only is [...]

When you have a sustained breathing problem that gets in the way of you either getting to sleep or staying asleep all through the night, then that’s a major issue. Sometimes people go years without realizing that they’re stopping breathing for several seconds at a time on many occasions through the night. Not only is this dangerous for your long-term health, but taken to its worst outcome, it could become life threatening if not managed properly. This is where CPAP machines can help.

What is a CPAP Machine?

A CPAP machine helps to manage breathing conditions to deal with the symptoms while not providing a cure to the underlying health problem. Whether the breathing difficulty is due to a birth defect, damage to the esophagus incurred during a traffic accident, or due to obesity causing difficulty breathing while moving around in bed, a lack of continual air flow causes dangerous health issues. If you’re suffering from something like that, then read on. A CPAP machine may be the answer to your prayers for a solution to getting a good night’s sleep.

How Does a CPAP Machine Work?

A CPAP machine takes in air and runs it through a filter to remove any impurities from dust and other air particles. You would use the mask that fits over your nose with straps that wrap around your head to secure the mask in place. This way, it doesn’t get dislodged while you’re sleeping. The nose is sometimes heated to make it feel more comfortable on the face too. The machine plugs into the power outlet and runs from there.

Some machines have added features that make them more desirable. The latest models are also capable of storing information on a SD data storage card and can connect wirelessly to transmit information to a doctor on breathing levels and other relevant information. Take a look at our reviews at Digitizd to help you decide which make and model will best suit your needs.

Compliance

The latest machines can get authorization from a doctor to confirm that use of a CPAP machine is approved by a physician. This is a minor issue because in most cases, it’s the doctor who is making the suggestion that you should get a CPAP product to help deal with sleep apnea or a sleep-related disorder to get a better night’s rest.

A wireless facility avoids needing to remove the SD card and pass it to your doctor to update their records because modern models do this automatically for you. This is ideal because it saves you time and the cost of a doctor’s appointment too, in many cases.

Humidifiers

A good selection of CPAP equipment now come with humidifiers in the form of a water pool that helps provide warmer, moist air that acts to soothe the passage of air into the body. Dry air isn’t always that easy to breathe, especially for eight hours straight, so the inclusion of a humidifier within a machine is a valuable feature to look for.

You may already have a humidifier in your bedroom and find it helps with your breathing before bedtime. While this is great, it won’t help you much once you have a CPAP mask over your nose as you’ll only be breathing in filtered oxygen in the room at that point. That’s not to say it’s a bad idea to keep a humidifier if you already own one – it is a good idea – but one built into a CPAP machine performs far better for sleeping. Each model has a different sized water chamber; larger is better but it does bulk up the size of the machine which is a consideration for people who need to travel a lot.

It’s Better to Travel

Traveling is fun. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a business trip, a family weekend away or a longer vacation, being able to get away gets us out of our comfort zone. We have new places to explore and different things to do which is all part of the fun. In terms of sleeping arrangements, most CPAP machines fit inside a travel bag and can be situated on a bedside table without difficulty. The air hose from the machine connects to the oxygen mask and is long enough to manage sleeping in a hotel bed. If there’s only one side table, you’ll just need to sleep on that side of the bed whether it’s your favorite side or not!

Machines weigh under two pounds on the low end to over 5 pounds on the higher end for home-based models. There are pros and cons to different models. For instance, larger water sections enable better humidification of the air flow for longer but increase the weight as a result. Usually there’s a trade-off between weight and included features, so you’ll have to decide where your priorities lie and choose a suitable model for your needs. A frequent traveler should most definitely sacrifice some features and opt for one of the lighter models.

Health Benefits

Disturbed sleep quickly gets to be a major problem for anyone who’s suffered from it. Becoming grouchy in the morning and walking around like a bear with a sore head gets old real fast for you and other people around you. It becomes necessary to do something about the core reasons why you’re not sleeping or, at least, put some measures in place to deal with the poor sleep until a real fix can be found.

Sleeping better means having more energy for the day ahead and starting the day off right. A prolonged lack of REM sleep has profound effects on the ability of the body to balance the immune system, repair key parts of the body, grow skin, and run essential bodily maintenance that’s only performed when you’re supposed to be sleeping for 7-8 hours a day. Getting a great night’s rest makes all the difference in the world to your whole disposition and outlook on life. The change is noticeable to everyone around you too, so investing in a CPAP machine when you have severe sleep issues is worth discussing with your doctor to see if it will help.

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-a-cpap-machine-how-can-help-you/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-a-cpap-machine-how-can-help-you/How Technology Can Help People Sleephttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/7hjQGCjcZN8/
https://www.digitizd.com/technology-help-people-sleep/#respondThu, 01 Mar 2018 13:33:17 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=382Having trouble sleeping is not necessarily something that you notice right away. It is often a problem that creeps up on you slowly. It typically starts by beginning to recognize how tired you are and searching for a cause of that feeling. It’s easier when you’re sleeping in the same bed as a significant other [...]

Having trouble sleeping is not necessarily something that you notice right away. It is often a problem that creeps up on you slowly. It typically starts by beginning to recognize how tired you are and searching for a cause of that feeling. It’s easier when you’re sleeping in the same bed as a significant other because they may often be awoken by your frequent tossing and turning or inability to either get to sleep or remain sleeping through the night. They may realize you have a sleeping issue like sleep apnea before you do.

Once you’ve gotten checked by a doctor and perhaps had some breathing tests performed, it may have been recognized that you have a breathing difficulty which is making sleeping difficult. Interrupted breathing through either a blocked airway, the lungs not working as well as we’d like or obstructed breathing due to obesity are just three of the ways that breathing while asleep gets to be a problem. The worst risk with sleep apnea is stopping breathing for long periods which could cause suffocation or worse, so when in difficulty, check with your doctor whether a CPAP machine might be good for your condition.

How CPAP Machines Can Help

A CPAP machine which stands for continuous positive airway pressure is a tool to help you sleep if you’re having difficulties. The idea of the CPAP equipment is that it helps you to breathe more regularly by ensuring enough oxygen is being taken in through your nose, down your esophagus and into your lungs. The positive airway feature relates to ensuring a sustained amount of necessary oxygen is fed in a measured quantity to ensure you receive enough air – not too much or too little – to breathe normally while asleep and not get awoken. This way, you can get a restful night’s sleep.

There are many differences between one CPAP model and the next. They certainly are not all the same. About five major manufacturers produce this type of equipment, so they each have their own pros and cons which are worth looking over before deciding which one will be the most help to you.

Automatic Titration or Hospital Testing?

There is a choice with the best CPAP machine whether to pick one that has automatic titration or not. The automatic titration sounds technical, but what it basically means is that it continually measures the air pressure needed for normal respiratory breathing and adjusts the CPAP system accordingly.

The alternative is an expensive, time-consuming series of tests at a local healthcare facility to confirm what necessary pressure is required for you to breathe normally. The setting determined from the healthcare tests is then fed into a machine—usually one without automatic titration – to ensure the right amount of air pressure for you.

If you feel you require the CPAP machine for many years to come, you might find you need a greater amount of air flow if your breathing condition worsens. Perhaps this could be because of coming down with a cold or the flu and being more blocked up or for another reason. Having a model that’s a bit more expensive but that comes with the automated feature avoids the need to get re-tested. When you factor in the time and money involved, getting the better model with the automatic calibration feature is worth it in most cases.

Is a CPAP Machine Noisy?

The CPAP machines present in hospitals tend to be less noisy than home-based models. However, that does depend on the manufacturer and which model you look at. Certainly, some CPAP models are almost whisper quiet whereas others are less so. Just like with any other comparative purchase, it’s a good idea to look at what features are provided by each model to determine the best purchase for both your needs and your pocketbook. Rest assured, there are quiet home CPAP machines available; if that’s the high priority, look specifically for that feature in the product specifications.

Built-in Humidifier

For homes in dry climate environments that get hotter and drier in the summer months, the lack of humidity in the bedroom can create an additional problem with labored breathing due to a dry mouth. A portable humidifier is a useful addition to the home, but it doesn’t always work perfectly in conjunction with a CPAP machine. Fortunately, there are some products like one of the Res-Med AirSense models that includes a humidifier to avoid getting a dry mouth through the night. This is one of those little features that you often don’t know that you needed until you bought a machine that didn’t have the option, so it’s well worth considering.

Are CPAP Machines Portable for Business or Personal Travel?

The size and weight of CPAP equipment for the home has come down in recent years thanks to modern manufacturing techniques. Some units are under 2 pounds including the oxygen mask and cabling. Their dimensions aren’t much larger than a laptop even though the machine itself is taller than one. It will certainly fit on a bedside table in a hotel or a bedroom at home without difficulty. It’s best to travel by car or pack it into your luggage when flying domestic to take it with you. These types of easy breathing equipment are portable enough to take on the road. You do need a little bit of arm strength, but they’re usually much lighter than a heavily stuffed suitcase that you take traveling with you.

Thankfully technology has made it possible to breathe more easily without needing to go into hospital for an extended period. CPAP machines are no longer just used on hospital wards to deal with patients that have prolonged breathing difficulties that have so far gone unresolved. The advent of home-based CPAP machines provides greater independence to sleep as you like without needing continual medical intervention. For anyone who is suffering from sleep apnea or a related breathing issue, this provides peace of mind because no one likes the feeling of losing their independence. That’s especially true as we get older.

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/technology-help-people-sleep/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/technology-help-people-sleep/What are Arduino Kits and What Are They Used For?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/zOEAIelVDeI/
https://www.digitizd.com/what-are-arduino-kits-and-what-are-they-used-for/#respondMon, 26 Feb 2018 13:58:50 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=350There was a time, a time that many of your parents will remember, when using a computer required some kind of an understanding of how it worked. On some of the first computers, such as the ZX Spectrum or the Commodore 64, users had to write their own software. Of course, things are much more [...]

There was a time, a time that many of your parents will remember, when using a computer required some kind of an understanding of how it worked. On some of the first computers, such as the ZX Spectrum or the Commodore 64, users had to write their own software. Of course, things are much more user-friendly now. Computers and laptops come pre-loaded with suites of software and it is very easy and quick to download any additional software that you need.

Many children now learn to programme as part of their normal curriculum. Most of us will have experienced lessons relevant to coding in some form at school, and it is easy (and free) for anyone to learn how to code online.

The Arduino offers a way for experienced coders to apply their coding skills to real-world problems, and for newcomers to learn the basics in a fun and interactive way.

What is the Arduino?

In short, it is a palm-sized computer. The Arduino is a type of device known as a microcontroller. A more famous example of this type of device is the Raspberry Pi, which is very similar to the Arduino in terms of what it can do. Microcontrollers look like circuit boards to most people. Those who have seen inside a computer before may be able to identify them as a miniature motherboard with ports and other connections.

The controller can be connected to a computer via a USB connection, where the user can write the code they wish to run on it. Or, an LCD screen can be attached, along with a keyboard and mouse, and the user can write code directly onto the controller itself.

It is easy to get started with arduinos buy buying a kit, before purchasing a kit make sure it is the right one for your needs. I suggest reading reviews, you can start with our page which reviews the best arduino starter kits.

What are Arduinos Used for?

Arduinos are used to serve a number of different functions. There really aren’t that many limitations. Just as with a traditional PC, Arduinos can be used for anything. There is a myriad of different peripherals and external sensors available. By connecting the Arduino with other smart devices in your home, the Arduino can function as a central controller, adjusting the settings of other devices according to readings such as temperature, moisture, and light levels.

The versatility of the Arduino makes it an excellent value investment. Multiple Arduinos can be connected together and used to serve distinct functions within the same system. They can even be linked with Raspberry Pis and other similar devices in order to capitalize on their different capabilities.

Choosing a Starter Kit

There is a wide range of starter kits available, both official ones and third-party manufactured alternatives. The prices range from around $20 to over $100. Each starter kit will come with different components. As is often the case with electronics, the amount that you are willing to spend will dictate the quality of the components that you are able to source.

The number of components will vary between starter kits, most of which come with booklets or other documentation that includes example projects. The booklet will walk you through those example projects from the ground up. You don’t need any prior experience in coding. However, after ordering your Arduino, while you wait for it to arrive you can look online for a website to teach you the basics of C/C++ - the languages that the Arduino uses.

Most Arduino starter kits are designed to give the user the basic components that they need to get started. If you want to try more advanced projects, then you will need to invest in some new components. You can also find some more specialized starter kits, which offer components geared towards particular functions.

The Arduino is an excellent microcontroller and makes a great controller for any smart home setup. They are also a good way of teaching kids about coding and about the potential ways they can use technology to interact with the world around them.

]]>https://www.digitizd.com/what-are-arduino-kits-and-what-are-they-used-for/feed/0https://www.digitizd.com/what-are-arduino-kits-and-what-are-they-used-for/What Exactly Is A 3D Pen?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/livethe20life/~3/V_H-DitsKLk/
https://www.digitizd.com/what-is-a-3d-pen/#respondWed, 21 Feb 2018 16:33:51 +0000https://www.digitizd.com/?p=334After the success of the Kickstarter campaign for the pioneering 3D doodler pen, it’s likely that you’ve already heard the phrase “3D pen” before, but not so many people actually know what a 3D pen is and how it works. These ingenious inventions can be used to create sculptures, tools, and appliances out of thin [...]

After the success of the Kickstarter campaign for the pioneering 3D doodler pen, it’s likely that you’ve already heard the phrase “3D pen” before, but not so many people actually know what a 3D pen is and how it works. These ingenious inventions can be used to create sculptures, tools, and appliances out of thin air, but the design process and mechanics behind them remain a mystery to many. The potential of the 3D pen seems to be endless, so if you’d like to learn a little more about these incredible instruments, then keep on reading.

So, What Is A 3D Pen Anyway?

Simply put, a 3D pen is a pen that allows for the creation of three-dimensional objects by producing quick-cooling plastic instead of ink, almost like a glue gun. This allows for the user to create whatever kind of object they want, completely free-hand.

The first 3D pen was the 3Doodle, which was funded by an incredibly successful K﻿ickstarter﻿ campaign that raised over $2 million in pledges towards developing the pen. Since then, manufacturers have gone on to create more and more advanced and intricate pens, with increasing price tags, and people all over the world have become obsessed with creating their own models with the 3D pens. There are even YouTube channels dedicated to the art form, amassing millions of views per video. So, clearly this is a popular hobby; some people have even managed to make careers out of it!

How Does A 3D Pen Work?

You might be wondering how a pen can produce plastic that cools quickly enough to create sculptures out of it, and you wouldn’t be alone, but the science behind it is actually pretty simple.

A plastic filament is inserted in the top of the pen, where a heating chamber gets it to a hot enough temperature that it will melt and become completely pliable. The user then presses a button and the melted plastic is forced out of the nib of the pen. Once out of the pen and exposed to the world, the plastic quickly cools down and takes a solid form again, which means you can quickly create solid objects from scratch.

Only some plastics have the right structure to allow them to melt fast and cool into a solid quickly. These include (to name only a few) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (more commonly known as ABS), polyamide (nylon, the same material used to make pantyhose), and polylactic acid (PLA). By far the most popular and easiest to get hold of are ABS and PLA, but each come with their own issues that can make choosing between them quite difficult.

Who Created The 3D Pen And Why?

The first 3D pen, as mentioned before, was the 3Doodler, which was created by Peter Dilworth and Maxwell Bogue, funded by a Kickstarter campaign. According to them, the idea for a 3D pen came out of a moment of frustration, after waiting for a 3D printer to finish its project for 14 hours, only to find out that it had missed a line. Bogue and Dilworth then decided to try and create a device that was portable and easy to use, which would make 3D printing a lot easier and fun to take part in. The idea quickly caught on, and thousands of people eagerly awaited their order of the first 3Doodler pen.

What Can You Do With A 3D Pen?

When customers first receive and start using their pen, they can sometimes be disappointed that they are not instantly creating incredibly detailed structures like the ones shown online. The reality is, drawing in 3D is a skill, and like any skill, you get better with practice. A beginner artist working with a 3D printing pen will often start out by making easy practical items such as coasters and pen holders, but with practice, they can quickly start creating more and more complicated structures like the Eiffel tower, albeit with the occasional help of stencils. Pros are able to make vastly complicated and beautiful structures, some of which are more for artistic and decorative purposes, but some that are for practical use as well such as jewelry and phone cases. The freehand nature of a 3D pen means that there is complete creative freedom, which is what attracts many people to 3D drawing in the first place.

How Much Do They Cost?

The cost of a 3D pen will depend greatly on who the buyer is and what they intend to use it for. There are 3D pens on the market available for as little as $30, but they tend not to be the best ones out there. However, for beginners or people who are interested, but not necessarily invested, they can be an affordable option. Many people start out with an original 3Doodler brand pen. These range from the most basic at $50 to the pro level pen at $250, so there’s something for everyone. Most people will go for the mid-range $100 option to start.

Is Using A 3D Pen Safe For The Environment?

With an increasing awareness of the effects of plastics, especially single-use plastics, on the environment, many people who are looking into 3D pens are concerned about the potential environmental damage they could cause.

Many 3D pen users will use ABS plastic in their pens, which is not biodegradable and, therefore, not safe for the environment. What’s more, it can emit toxic fumes when it is heated, that can easily be inhaled if the use isn’t working in a well-ventilated area. Because of these downsides, many users prefer to instead use PLA, which is actually derived from natural sources such as corn and is, therefore, biodegradable. This makes PLA much safer for the user, and for the planet. However, PLA can take longer to cool than ABS, which can put some people off. Hopefully, as awareness of the increasing risk that plastic poses to wildlife, more people will choose to opt for PLA over ABS.